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kosta_karapinotis

Active member
Last time I was in Greece, I brought back some Greek mountain tea (Tsai tou vounou) and absolutely love the taste. It’s light, herbal, and feels incredibly soothing. I’ve been drinking it occasionally in the evenings, but now I’m curious to learn more about it as an herb.

I’ve read that it’s popular for its health benefits, like boosting the immune system and helping with digestion. Does anyone have more insight into what makes it so special? Are there any traditional ways to prepare it to really bring out its flavor or maximize its benefits?

Also, if anyone knows whether it’s okay to drink it daily or has other creative ideas for using it (besides tea), I’d love to hear your tips. Thank you!
 
Greek mountain tea is a wonderful choice—its soothing, earthy flavor is matched by its impressive health benefits. Made from the Sideritis plant, it’s rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties, which are believed to support the immune system and digestion. It’s also caffeine-free, making it perfect for daily use.

To enhance its flavor and benefits, try brewing it the traditional way: steep the dried stems, leaves, and flowers in hot (not boiling) water for 5–10 minutes. Add a splash of honey and a squeeze of lemon for a delicious twist.

Beyond tea, some people use it as a base for herbal infusions or even in recipes like soups for a unique flavor. It’s a versatile herb you can enjoy in so many ways!
 

How to cook gigantes beans without them splitting?

I make gigantes all the time and they never split apart. I taught someone to make them, and they keep splitting! I swear I told this person everything, but I don't think I did, otherwise hers wouldn't split.

What is going on? What are some of the reasons for the split? I am to the best at explaining recipes because some things I do are automatic. But I have been cooking for most of my life and she's new to cooking. What do you think?

Greek things to do with butternut squash?

Hi everyone! I’m curious about traditional (or regional) Greek ways to cook with butternut squash. My aunt used to make an incredible kolokythopita with it — sweet, earthy, and a little reminiscent of butternut squash pie filling, but wrapped in crisp phyllo instead of a pastry crust. It was one of those dishes that tasted both rustic and festive at the same time.

I’m wondering what else Greeks typically do with butternut squash, especially in home cooking. Are there savory versions of the pie? Any stews, ladera, or casseroles that feature it? Does anyone use it in soups, risottos, or baked dishes? I’d also love to know if certain regions in Greece cook with butternut squash more often than others.

Would love to hear your ideas, family recipes, and regional traditions!

What is the perfect skordalia texture?

Lately I’ve been experimenting with skordalia, and I’m starting to realize just how many different versions there really are. Some people swear by a silky, almost whipped texture, while others prefer it thick and rustic, the kind you can practically stand a spoon in. I’ve tried both bread-based and potato-based versions, and the results couldn’t be more different. Bread seems to give it a lighter, fluffier feel, while potatoes make it dense and hearty.

But here’s my question for everyone who makes this regularly: What is the perfect texture supposed to be? Is true skordalia meant to be smooth and airy, or thick and substantial? Should the garlic be fully integrated, or is a tiny bit of graininess acceptable? I know it's personal preference, too.

Favorite Herbs for Dolmades?

I’ve been experimenting with different herb combinations for dolmades lately, and I’m curious what everyone else uses. Traditionally I’ve seen recipes with dill, parsley, mint, or even a mix of all three — but I’ve found that mint really makes the flavor pop. It gives the filling such a fresh, aromatic lift that balances the rice and olive oil beautifully.

Sometimes I’ll add a touch of dill for depth, or parsley if I want something more earthy, but mint always seems to bring everything together. I’ve also noticed some regions lean heavily on dill, while others skip it entirely.

Do you find that certain herbs make your dolmades taste more authentic or closer to how your family used to make them? Do you adjust depending on whether they’re meat-filled or vegetarian?

How do you make your tzatziki creamier?

I make Greek food all the time, spanakopita, keftedes, souvlaki, you name it — but I’ve always taken the shortcut and bought my tzatziki ready-made. Lately I’ve been wanting to make it from scratch and get that rich, creamy texture you find in good tavernas.

I’ve tried a few recipes with strained Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice, but mine keeps turning out too thin or slightly watery after a few hours. I strain the cucumber and even use full-fat yogurt, but it still doesn’t have that thick, velvety consistency.

So I’m curious — what’s your secret to creamier tzatziki? Do you use a specific brand of yogurt, or maybe add something like sour cream or labneh? Does chilling it overnight make a difference? I’d love to hear how you make yours stay thick, fresh, and perfectly balanced between tangy and smooth.
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